Having received some positive feedback on my initial theme of Schadenfreude (the pleasure derived from the misfortune of another), I've thought about more intelligable yet practical outcomes;
1. Whilst I think mundane, everyday experiences of Schadenfreude are interesting on an observational level, I'm thinking more about the current climate whereby the media actively encourage us to feel the tabooed emotion - especially the downfall of celebs and those high in power or authority. I've thought of producing an outcome that highlights this media influence and social comment in a non-preachy, heavy way. Therefore, an alternative method of re-telling a glossy, over-hyped celeb scandal would be to present it in monochrome within a zoetrope - this also comments on the shift from what was considered innocent, traditional, family entertainment to how we get our kicks today.
Not to infringe on other students' 'all things enormous' idea, the zoetrope itself would have most effect and a heightened relation to the viewer if it were to human scale. One piece would be constructed with many graphic strips of the embarrassing misfortunes (mentioned in my first blog) available to slot in.
Considering the scale of the piece and the fact that it would be positioned in various locations in the city (particularly squares, as almost circus/freakshow events) they would invite the 'Ultimate opportunity for schadenfreude' as the public would be in control of their movement. Without their participation, the scandals/misfortunes would not unfold and so again it plays with the idea of temptation.
Perhaps the whole motive could be to take the stigma out of an emotion we all feel but deny to exist. Making the experience so public could take it from being a guilty pleasure, to one of accepted celebration.
2. The opposite of a celebrated pleasure would be in considering Schadenfreude as a guilty pleasure. Therefore, perhaps the above idea would work on the complete opposite scale of being a miniature zoetrope which could be a portable device to sneekingly lift one's spirits, boost an ego, or gain a malicious kick or laugh?
Almost like a designed toy (but in a light-hearted tone) packaging would also be considered.
3. In thinking of possible photographic outcomes, and considering that one reason for Schadenfreude is jealousy, I thought of a more commercial or fashion angle, in that often we might feel the emotion because we want something another has. A possible outcome to this notion could be a photoshoot for an edgy, attitude ridden
clothing brand where for example beautiful models in 'to die-for' clothes are seen getting such comeuppances as being drenched by a taxi passing through a puddle.
The aim would be to highlight the competetive aspect of living in a city where we like to see the downfall of those we feel are doing better than ourselves.
4. Finally, thinking back to the analogy of Schadenfreude as a guilty pleasure, I thought of isolating this term and finding out exactly what people in London are ashamed to admit to loving or owning. As a nosey person I'm always intrigued to know what people have hidden under their beds, in their bottom drawers and hide away when they are expecting visitors.
The idea would be to advertise for a 'Guilty Pleasures amnesty' where the public would hand in all their embarrassing and cringe-worthy objects, clothes, ornaments and nerdy collections. With a strong interest in photography, I would aim to photograph the objects hoping to catch them in their 'best light'and find some glimmer of attractiveness or purpose.
